Country code: +972 Area code: 3

Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

Ben Gurion Airport, Israel's main international gateway, is located approximately 20 km southeast of Tel Aviv's city centre. The journey to the city typically takes around 20 to 30 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Travellers can reach the city centre via several convenient options: the train, which runs frequently and takes about 18-20 minutes; buses, which offer a more economical choice though the journey might take longer; and taxis or private transfers. The official taxi rank is located in front of the Terminal on Level G, near the exit through Gate 1. Non-authorised taxis should be avoided to prevent potential scams or overcharging.

Passport/Visa

To visit Israel, your passport should be valid for at least the duration of your stay. While Israel recommends six months of validity, it's no longer a strict requirement as long as your passport remains valid during your visit. Most visitors from countries with visa exemption agreements, including the EU, USA, Canada, and Australia, can enter Israel for up to 90 days without a visa. However, as of August 2024, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) must be obtained online at least 72 hours before travel. For those from non-exempt countries, a visa is required in advance. In addition, Israel issues an entry card instead of stamping passports, which helps avoid complications when travelling to certain Arab or Muslim countries. Carry your passport if you plan to visit Palestinian territories, as it may be required at checkpoints.

Best Time to Visit

The best months to visit Tel Aviv are March through April and September through November, as spring and fall bring reasonable and pleasant temperatures as well as the lowest prices. Moreover, during this period, you will avoid the tourist crowds. However, if you are heading to Tel Aviv for your summer holidays, then May to August is your time. The sun is bright and warm and the Mediterranean is perfect for a swim. Remember to book at least two months in advance, as this is the peak tourist season.

Public Transport

Buses: The main public bus operator in Tel Aviv is called Dan, with the national operator Egged also serving some routes. Most buses do not operate on Shabbat (from Friday mid-afternoon until Saturday night). However, shared taxis called 'sherut' continue to run during this time. Trains: Tel Aviv-Yafo has four train stations along the Ayalon Highway: Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv Savidor Merkaz (Arlozorov), Tel Aviv HaShalom, and Tel Aviv HaHagana. All trains serving Tel Aviv stop at these stations. For easy access to the city centre, Tel Aviv Savidor Merkaz and HaShalom are the most convenient, with HaShalom being directly connected to a major shopping mall. Public transport In Tel Aviv operates using the Rav-Kav smart card, which can be used for buses, trains, and the light rail. Single rides, daily, and monthly passes can be loaded onto the Rav-Kav. Tickets can no longer be purchased directly from the driver; instead, they must be obtained at vending machines, kiosks, or via the Rav-Kav app.

Taxi

In Tel Aviv, taxis are readily available, especially in busy areas and near major hotels. All taxis are metered, and drivers are required to use the meter for each journey. Ride-sharing apps, such as Gett, operate widely in the city, allowing passengers to book taxis directly through the app with transparent pricing and the option to pay by credit card.

Electricity

In Tel Aviv, the electrical system operates on a voltage of 230V with a frequency of 50Hz. The common types of electrical plugs used are Type C and Type H. Type C plugs are the standard European two-round pin plugs, while Type H plugs are unique to Israel, featuring three flat pins arranged in a triangular configuration.

Telephone

Tel Aviv